Major Bridge Construction Begins on Edward Hines Drive

News Summary

Starting February 24, significant construction will impact Edward Hines Drive as the Michigan Department of Transportation undertakes a major bridge project. The bridge crossing Ann Arbor Road will be demolished and rebuilt to enhance infrastructure, with detours planned for east and westbound traffic. A temporary pedestrian bridge will ensure safe travel during the construction. This project is part of a $21.5 million investment in local infrastructure, which is expected to support 205 jobs in the community.

Attention Residents of Michigan: Major Bridge Project Means Traffic Changes Ahead!

Hey there, Michigan residents! If you frequently drive or walk along Edward Hines Drive, you might want to take note of some upcoming changes. Starting on February 24, this key roadway will be undergoing some major construction work as crews get started on an exciting bridge project that’s set to improve our infrastructure.

What to Expect with the Closure

Edward Hines Drive will be closed between Newburgh and Wayne roads as the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) tackles the task of demolishing and then rebuilding the bridge that crosses over Ann Arbor Road. This bridge has been around since 1948, so it’s high time for an upgrade!

As part of the project, not only will the bridge itself be rebuilt, but the shared-use path and surrounding pavement will also see some needed enhancements. While this can be a little inconvenient for drivers, MDOT has thought ahead. A temporary bridge will be available just for pedestrians, ensuring that everyone can still get around safely during construction.

Traffic Detours You Need to Know

If you’re driving east on Edward Hines Drive, get ready to reroute. Here are the new paths:

• Northbound on Newburgh Road
• Eastbound on Ann Arbor/Plymouth Road
• Southbound on Farmington Road
• Lastly, take a left onto Joy Road to get back to eastbound Edward Hines Drive.

For those heading west, you’ll be taking a different route:

• Eastbound on Joy Road
• Northbound on Farmington Road
• Westbound on Ann Arbor/Plymouth Road
• Finally, take Jughandle Road back onto westbound Edward Hines Drive.

More Than Just a Bridge

This bridge project is just a part of a bigger picture. It’s included in a whopping $21.5 million investment to upgrade our local infrastructure—most importantly, bridges on Old M-14 (Ann Arbor Road) over the Middle Rouge River and Edward Hines Drive. Both of these bridges need serious attention, especially since the bridge over the Middle Rouge River was built way back in 1925.

In addition to rebuilding the bridges, the project will also involve some intersection upgrades and a facelift for the traffic signals to accommodate the needs of modern driving. Expect all of this to be wrapped up by the end of 2025.

Who’s Affected by the Ann Arbor Road Work?

Currently, if you’re planning to drive down Ann Arbor Road, be aware that it has been closed between Newburgh Road and Market Street since early January. The construction here includes demolishing and rebuilding the bridge over the Middle Rouge River, along with pavement reconstruction and drainage improvement work.

Just like with Edward Hines Drive, those traveling east on Ann Arbor Road will need to make detours too:

• Northeast on Newburgh Road to Ann Arbor/Plymouth Road

And for drivers heading west? You’ll be rerouted via:

• Southbound on Newburgh Road back to Ann Arbor Road.

Job Opportunities Ahead!

Perhaps you’re wondering how this massive infrastructure project will benefit the community. Well, according to economic estimates, this investment is expected to support 205 jobs, both directly and indirectly. That means more jobs and more opportunities for the local workforce as we improve our roads and bridges!

So, remember to be patient and plan your routes carefully while these essential upgrades take place. They’re going to help keep Michigan moving safely for years to come!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Infrastructure Overhaul Planned for M-14 and I-96 in Livonia and Plymouth
Bridge Reconstruction Project Set to Transform Livonia Roads
Livonia Begins Major Bridge Reconstruction Project
Major Bridge Replacement Project Begins in Livonia
Bridge Reconstruction Project in Livonia Set to Begin

Additional Resources

• ClickOnDetroit: Weather Alerts
• Country Herald: New York Weather Alert
• Silive: NY Weather Winter Storm Watch
• CBS News: Winter Snow Storm Southeast Michigan
• WANE: WANE 15 Doppler Fury Forecast